Entry Fee: $35 for up to 3 works
Submission Deadline: April 30, 2026 midnight
Exhibition dates: June 12 - August 2, 2026
Opening reception: Saturday June 13, 1-4pm
Juror: Kathleen Marie Garness
Juried exhibition aligns with and will be a featured stop on the OPRF Garden Garden Walk June 27 & 28
We invite contemporary artists to explore the timeless, yet ever-evolving relationship between humanity and the botanical world in BLOOM: Art of Flowers & Foliage & Fruit. This juried exhibition celebrates the diverse ways artists interpret, reimagine, and respond to floral and botanical subjects through contemporary perspectives.
From intimate studies of botanical detail to abstract interpretations of natural forms, from environmental commentary to cultural symbolism, this exhibition seeks works that engage with flowers, foliage, and fruit as more than mere subject matter—as vessels for deeper artistic inquiry and expression.
Theme & Artistic Vision
Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly and personally. We welcome works that:
- Explore traditional botanical representation through contemporary techniques
- Investigate the symbolic, cultural, or spiritual significance of flowers and plants
- Address environmental themes, seasons, growth, decay, and renewal
- Examine the intersection of nature and technology, urban and natural environments
- Celebrate color, form, texture, and the sensory experience of botanical life
- Question or subvert traditional floral imagery and its cultural associations
- Incorporate botanical elements in abstract, conceptual, or experimental ways
Eligible Media & Formats
All contemporary art media are welcome, including but not limited to:
- Painting (oil, acrylic, watercolor, mixed media)
- Drawing and printmaking
- Photography and digital art
- Sculpture and installation
- Textile arts and fiber work
- Ceramics and glass
- Video and new media
- Collage and assemblage
Submission Guidelines
Eligibility: Open to artists 18 years and older, all career levels welcome
Entry Requirements:
- Submit all materials and pay submission fee via Submittable
- Maximum 3 works per artist
- All work must be original and created within the last 3 years
- Work must be ready for exhibition (framed, mounted, or display-ready as appropriate)
- Maximum dimensions: 60" in any direction for 2D works; 6' maximum height for 3D works
- Video works maximum 10 minutes duration
Awards & Recognition
All accepted artists will receive professional exhibition experience, promotional opportunities, and inclusion in online exhibition catalog. Cash awards will be given in the following catagories
- Best in Show
- Excellence in Traditional Media
- Excellence in Contemporary Interpretation
- Emerging Artist Award
Important Dates Open for Submissions - January 1, 2026
Submission Deadline - April 30, midnight
Notification - May 15, 2026
Drop off/work to arrive if shipped: June 6 & 7
Exhibition dates: June 12 - August 2, 2026
Opening reception: Saturday June 13, 1-4pm
Pick up work: August 6 - 9
Additional Information
- All accepted works must remain in exhibition for entire duration
- Gallery retains 40% commission on sales
- Artists are responsible for shipping costs and insurance
- Professional handling and security provided during exhibition
- Marketing includes social media promotion, press releases, and online catalog